Layout clip and method of use
A layout clip and method comprises a clip body having a channel formed therein which frictionally engages a string that is secured to a layout member that is placed to define a future structure. The layout clip has a gripping portion and is marked to indicate a structure layout position such as a wall etc. The clip has a layout mark on at least one surface. The layout clips are color coded to represent different service items such as plumbing lines or electrical runs. One embodiment includes an elongated gripping portion to aid in placing and removing the clip. A line clip method comprises locating and securing a string that corresponds to a structure such as a wall, pole or fence etc.; then securing a clip along the string to locate where a fixture or other component will be installed. The clips are removable and reusable.
One of the things that set humans apart from other life forms on earth is our seemingly endless drive to build and create things. From the early Egyptians who mastered pyramid building; the Romans who built structures such as the aqueducts that are still delivering water after two millennia, to modern builders with their sophisticated building materials, methods and machinery; all these builders had something in common; they had to layout before completing the structures.
Over time, many solutions have been proposed to help the builder layout the structures. Some solutions involved having the layout system being integrated into the structure thus not allowing reuse. Other systems require sophisticated equipment thus increasing the cost and complexity of the build. There is a need for a layout system that is easy to use, economical and reusable.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONA layout clip and method comprises a clip body having a channel formed therein which frictionally engages a string that is secured to a layout member that is placed to define a future structure. The layout clip has a gripping portion and is marked to indicate a structure layout position such as a wall etc. The clip has a layout mark on at least one surface. The layout clips are color coded to represent different service items such as plumbing lines or electrical runs. One embodiment includes an elongated gripping portion to aid in placing and removing the clip. A line clip method comprises locating and securing a string that corresponds to a structure such as a wall, pole or fence etc.; then securing a clip along the string to locate where a fixture or other component will be installed. The clips are removable and reusable.
Other features and advantages of the instant invention will become apparent from the following description of the invention which refers to the accompanying drawings.
In the following detailed description of the invention, reference is made to the drawings in which reference numerals refer to like elements, and which are intended to show by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. It is understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that structural changes may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention.
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Although the instant invention has been described in relation to particular embodiments thereof, many other variations and modifications and other uses will become apparent to those skilled in the art.
Claims
1. A method for using layout clips to mark a jobsite comprising the steps of:
- locating layout members in a selected configuration corresponding to a future structure;
- securing an end of a string to a section of said layout member;
- securing another end of said string whereby said string is under tension and stretched taunt; and
- applying a layout clip along said string corresponding to a service location.
2. The method for using layout clips to mark a jobsite further comprising the step of selecting a color coded layout clip that corresponds to a selected component.
3. The method for using layout clips to mark a jobsite further comprising the step of aligning a layout mark disposed on at least one surface of said layout clip with the location of a to be installed component.
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Type: Grant
Filed: Sep 7, 2007
Date of Patent: Mar 24, 2009
Inventor: Dale Johnson (Hauser, ID)
Primary Examiner: R. A. Smith
Attorney: Patwrite LLC
Application Number: 11/851,491
International Classification: E03B 1/00 (20060101); G01C 15/02 (20060101);